# higher education

CEFR B1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/higher-education
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

learning that happens at a university or college after you finish school.

For teachers: education at a post-secondary level, typically provided by universities, colleges, and professional schools that grant degrees or certifications.

## Examples

- She wants to continue her higher education in London.
- Many students take out loans to pay for their higher education because tuition fees are quite expensive.
- The government is currently debating whether to increase funding for higher education to ensure that research facilities remain globally competitive.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He is studying a higher education." but "He is in higher education." — we do not use 'a' with 'higher education' as it is an uncountable concept, not a single object.

## Usage notes

- Usually functions as an uncountable noun and does not require a plural form.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'further education', which in some systems refers to vocational or non-degree courses taken after secondary school but before university.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.